Buying A Craftsmen 9x12 Monarch

Hi—I’ve been on the lookout for a tabletop press for some time now and am happy to announce that I’m finally in discussion with somebody for a Craftsmen Monarch 9x12 press. This would be my first press and I just wanted to know if there are any issues or concerns that should be addressed with these particular machines before I purchase it.

I’ve used Pilots in the past and, from what I understand, these Craftsmen presses are very similar.

I am going to check out the press later this week. Any thoughts or advice would be a huge help. Thanks!

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have 2 craftsman presses, use one and leave it set up for scoring, they are capable of doing fine work. Make sure you get a chase, roller cores and trucks with your press. Check press for breaks or welds, especially around the bed and platen. Great press, should give you hours of fun.

Hi dickg—thanks for your reply. The rollers, chase, and trucks are all included but I will definitely keep an eye out for welds or breaks. Are welds pretty much a dealbreaker? Obviously breaks are a big issue.

I’m mostly just concerned about rust. I plan on putting in some time cleaning it and doing some light restoration, however I’m not sure where the line is drawn between a fixer-upper and a press that is beyond repair.

Here is a photo of the press. Any thoughts? Does this look like it is good shape?

Thanks again!

image: Screen Shot 2013-12-10 at 10.45.36 AM.png

Screen Shot 2013-12-10 at 10.45.36 AM.png

if the bed or platen were welded I’d think twice about the press, I just had 2 presses that were rusted solid, nothing moved, I soaked them with penetrating oil for over 6 months before anything started moving, now both are ready to print. Welded parts aren’t always a deal breaker, if done right they can hold for many years, I have a few presses with different parts welded and don’t have any problems with them. Your press looks to be in great shape, my craftsman is a 6x10 (I think) it sat outside for a few years covered by a tarp, I still have some rust on it but it works very good.

Excellent, thanks again!

Excellent, thanks again!

craftsman is still in business here in Massachusetts, they don’t make the presses any more but I heard they still have some parts for them.